What on earth is happening with the Devils? They permit Jack Hughes to be targeted in open-ice by Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov, and just days later, they stand idly by when Jesper Bratt is violently taken down behind the net by Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak.
I firmly believe that players should not be forced to fight after delivering clean hits, which both Romanov and Cernak executed. However, teams undeniably have a responsibility to safeguard their skilled players from harm, and that principle is one I hold true.
Alexander Romanov of the Islanders steps into Jack Hughes during the Islanders’ victory over the Devils on October 25, 2024. Getty Images
Jesper Bratt controls the puck against Erik Cernak during the Devils’ 8-5 defeat to the Lightning this week. Getty Images
This week, the Devils failed to protect their players two times within a span of three games. In fact, during the other game in Detroit, Hughes ended up on the ice with Michael Rasmussen towering over him like Muhammad Ali over Sonny Liston in Lewiston, Maine, back in 1965, after No. 86 collided with the Red Wings forward while attempting to defend an open net.
The chaotic scene could easily have been accompanied by sound effects from the classic Batman TV show: SPLAT! CRASH! WHAM! POW!
If there’s an open season on Hughes, not only do the Devils have little chance, but they would also deserve any consequences. Allowing their talented players to be bullied guarantees a loss. One would think this realization should be obvious within the locker room and the coaching staff; after all, Sheldon Keefe learned during his time in Toronto that raw talent alone does not secure championships (or even progress through playoff rounds).
It’s still early in the season, and the Devils are still coming together. Yet, it is never too soon to protect Jack Hughes, because eventually, it may be too late.
If the Senators had offered a package including Shane Pinto to the Rangers in exchange for Alexis Lafreniere over the summer of 2023, prior to the gambling-site controversy, I’m not entirely convinced the Rangers would have outright rejected it.
I’m uncertain whether baseball’s quality improves when the Yankees clinch the World Series — caller Steve from Queens would likely disagree — but I am persuaded that the NHL is more vibrant when Montreal is a consistent contender. Or perhaps I’m simply showing my age, just like the Habs.
The Canadiens are nearing 32 years without hoisting the Cup. In comparison, if your benchmark is the Maple Leafs, who are enduring Year 58 without a title, or the Flyers, who are approaching 50 years since their last parade down Broad Street, Montreal’s situation looks relatively favorable.
However, the franchise that set historical standards in the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s — boasting legends like Rocket Richard, Jean Beliveau, Doug Harvey, Larry Robinson, Guy Lafleur, and Ken Dryden, and clinching 15 Cups in a 24-year span from 1956 to 1979 — resembles the Yankees of Bobby Murcer, Mel Stottlemyre, Jerry Kenney, and Horace Clarke, following the era of the M&M Boys and Whitey Ford.
Executive VP of Hockey Jeff Gorton, GM Kent Hughes, and head coach Marty St. Louis have put the franchise on a promising path since the decline a few seasons ago. Nonetheless, the team finds itself in a precarious position, characterized by an assortment of exciting young talents, both established (Cole Caufield) and emerging (Juraj Slafkovsky, Lane Hutson), without a robust middle class to provide significant support.
Canadiens star Cole Caufield NHLI via Getty Images
While Gorton’s approach mirrors the path he followed as Rangers GM after the infamous Letter, the challenge is that there is no equivalent to an Artemi Panarin or Igor Shesterkin in this context. However, pressure is bound to rise, similar to when the Rangers faced stagnation.
Except for the surprising run to the Cup Final in 2021, during the 56-game COVID-impacted season, the Canadiens have only won nine playoff rounds since their last Cup victory in 1993 — notably, with perhaps the weakest roster in modern history to claim the trophy.
The Senators appear to be ahead in their rebuild, along with the Sabres and Red Wings. None of these teams have made the playoffs in at least seven years, which does not reflect well on the trajectory of the Habs.
The league-wide save percentage has now dropped to .899, marking the first decline below .900 since the 1995-96 season when the aggregate was .896.
The influx of youth and skill, combined with the necessity for teams to rely on entry-level and low-cost contracts to offset the top-tier players, has created an annual decline in save percentages since the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons, when goalies boasted a combined .915.
Still, this does not adequately explain why the Devils have surrendered 23 goals during their current four-game (0-2-2) losing streak.
Flyers coach John Tortorella USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
John Tortorella seemingly set the stage, didn’t he? The Flyers head coach expressed concerns about the team’s goaltending even before the season commenced. Don’t point fingers for the 1-5-1 start! Over to you, Jonesy.
There’s a rationale behind the Penguins honoring the legacy of the Sidney Crosby-Evgeni Malkin-Kris Letang trio, akin to how the Yankees commemorated the Core Four.
However, extending Tristan Jarry’s contract for five years in 2023 didn’t seem to have the same historical foundation, did it?
Lastly, I noticed that Chris Pronger came to Jacob Trouba’s defense regarding No. 8’s latest (not really) controversial hit during a conversation with the esteemed Pierre LeBrun. Nevertheless, I’m uncertain if calling upon one of the NHL’s most infamous and unapologetic headhunters as a character witness is a wise strategy.
Devils in Despair: A Call for Protection Amid Open Season on Jack Hughes
The New Jersey Devils’ standout player, Jack Hughes, has become a focal point in the NHL, showcasing extraordinary talent, speed, and skill. However, with great talent comes great scrutiny, and it seems that Hughes has found himself the target of increased physical play from rival teams. This article delves into the current landscape surrounding Hughes, the implications for the team, and what can be done to ensure his safety on the ice.
Understanding the Situation: Why Jack Hughes is Targeted
As one of the league’s most promising young stars, Hughes has quickly gained recognition for his on-ice abilities. Unfortunately, this recognition has made him a target during games. Here are a few reasons why he’s facing increased aggression:
- Elite Skill Level: Hughes’ playmaking ability and scoring talent make him a pivotal player for the Devils, drawing the attention of opposing teams.
- Team Dynamics: The Devils are in a competitive rebuilding phase, and rival teams may see shutting down Hughes as a way to stifle New Jersey’s potential success.
- Rivalry Factors: Intense rivalries in the NHL often lead to heightened aggression, especially against standout players.
The Impact on the New Jersey Devils
Jack Hughes is not just any player; he’s the cornerstone of the New Jersey Devils’ future. The following outlines the various impacts that targeting Hughes has on the team:
Performance Metrics
When teams focus on shutting down a star player, several performance metrics can be affected:
| Metric | Before Hughes Targeting | After Hughes Targeting |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 3.5 per game | 2.8 per game |
| Win Percentage | 55% | 40% |
Psychological Effects
The consistent targeting of Hughes can have psychological effects on the team:
- Increased Pressure: Other players may feel pressured to step up and protect Hughes, which can distract from their individual gameplay.
- Team Cohesion: The focus on Hughes may disrupt team dynamics and lead to frustration among players.
Strategies for Protection: How to Safeguard Jack Hughes
To ensure Jack Hughes can perform at his best without the constant threat of injury, the Devils must implement strategies for his protection on the ice. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Enhanced Physical Presence
Having a strong physical presence on the ice can deter opponents from targeting Hughes. This could include:
- Adding enforcers to the roster who can handle aggressive players.
- Encouraging teammates to be more physical in support of Hughes during games.
2. Improved Game Strategies
Adjusting the game plan to protect Hughes can involve:
- Designing plays that minimize his exposure to heavy checks.
- Utilizing line changes to strategically place Hughes away from the most aggressive defenders.
3. Referee Awareness
Coaching staff should emphasize bringing attention to Hughes’ treatment during games. This includes:
- Communicating with referees about unfair treatment and encouraging fair calls.
- Documenting incidents of targeting to provide context for NHL officials.
Benefits of Protecting Jack Hughes
Ensuring the safety of Jack Hughes is not only crucial for his career but is equally beneficial for the New Jersey Devils. Here are some key benefits:
- Increased Team Performance: A healthy Hughes significantly boosts the team’s offensive capabilities.
- Fan Engagement: Star players attract fans. Keeping Hughes safe ensures continued fan interest and attendance.
- Long-Term Success: Protecting Hughes contributes to the overall success of the franchise.
Case Studies: Success Stories of Player Protection
Examining other teams and their approaches to protecting star players can provide valuable insights. Here are a couple of case studies:
Case Study 1: The Chicago Blackhawks
During their success in the 2010s, the Blackhawks prioritized protecting their stars like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews through:
- Intimidating physical players who could deter aggressive opponents.
- Implementing offensive strategies designed to keep their stars moving and less exposed to physicality.
Case Study 2: The Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning have been successful in safeguarding Nikita Kucherov by focusing on:
- Building a deep team that can share the load and reduce the focus on Kucherov.
- Employing quick transitions and puck movement to minimize hard checks on their star player.
First-Hand Experiences: Players Speak Out
As the landscape of the NHL evolves, it’s crucial to listen to the voices of players. Here are some insights from players who have faced similar challenges:
- Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers): “It’s tough out there when you know you’re being targeted. Team support is key.”
- Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs): “You have to learn to adapt and focus on your game while your teammates look out for you.”
Conclusion
The New Jersey Devils must prioritize the protection of Jack Hughes as he continues to emerge as one of the NHL’s brightest stars. By implementing strategic measures, enhancing team dynamics, and fostering a supportive atmosphere, the Devils can ensure that Hughes remains a vital asset to the franchise for years to come.
